Mesh Lining vs Tricot Lining Fabrics: A Comprehensive Comparison for Apparel Design

Why Lining Fabric Choice Matters

In garment manufacturing, the choice of lining fabric is more than an afterthought – it significantly impacts the comfort, performance, and quality of the final product. Linings serve as the interface between the wearer's body and the garment shell, influencing how the garment feels, breathes, and moves. The right lining can make even a scratchy outer fabric comfortable and can improve garment durability and structure. Conversely, a poorly chosen lining might cause a garment to feel hot, clingy, or restrictive, undermining the garment’s intended function. For apparel manufacturers and product designers, understanding the differences between mesh lining fabrics and tricot lining options is crucial to ensure the garment meets its design goals and end-user needs. This article delves into what mesh and tricot linings are, compares their properties (breathability, weight, stretch, durability, softness, moisture management, and cost), and provides guidance on choosing between them for various garment applications.

What Are Mesh Lining Fabrics?

Mesh lining fabrics are linings made from mesh – a fabric characterized by an open, net-like structure. In mesh fabrics, the yarns are knitted or sometimes woven to create evenly spaced holes throughout the material. This construction yields a lightweight, highly breathable fabric ideal for ventilation. Mesh linings are typically made from synthetic fibers like polyester or nylon (often 100% or blended with spandex for stretch) because these fibers provide strength and durability even in thin, open structures. The holes in mesh allow ample air circulation, which helps dissipate heat and moisture, making mesh a popular choice for activewear and summer apparel linings. In fact, polyester mesh is noted for being breathable, quick-drying, and durable – a preferred choice in athletic clothing and activewear.

Structurally, mesh can be produced via different knitting techniques. Many apparel meshes are warp knitted (often on Raschel knitting machines) to create stable netting with controlled hole sizes. Raschel-knit mesh uses relatively larger yarns and open constructions, yielding a rugged, coarse mesh often seen in sports jerseys and basketball short liners. Other meshes are made on tricot knitting machines with finer yarns and higher needle counts, resulting in lighter, softer mesh fabrics suitable for linings and delicate applications. Depending on fiber content and knit structure, mesh linings can range from rigid mesh (with little stretch, using just polyester or nylon) to stretch mesh or power mesh (incorporating spandex for two-way or four-way elasticity). For general garment lining (such as inside a jacket or shorts), manufacturers often use a lightweight polyester mesh without spandex – this provides structure and airflow without excessive stretch. However, in performance garments requiring support or compression (e.g. sports bras, shapewear), a spandex-infused power mesh might be used as an inner lining panel to add gentle compression and fit support.

Properties and Use Cases: Mesh lining fabrics excel in applications where breathability and light weight are priorities. The open construction gives mesh an excellent strength-to-weight ratio – it can be remarkably lightweight yet still tear-resistant if made with strong fibers. High-quality polyester mesh, for example, offers a combination of ample airflow, durability, and quick-drying performance, which is why it’s favored in athletic gear. Mesh linings are common in:

• Activewear and Sports Apparel:g. the inner brief of running shorts or swim trunks is often a mesh lining to allow water and sweat to drain and evaporate quickly. Sports jerseys sometimes incorporate mesh panels or full mesh bodies for ventilation.
• Outdoor and Summer Garments: Lightweight jackets and 2-layer rain shells may have a hanging mesh lining to keep the waterproof outer fabric off the skin and improve airflow, albeit at the cost of a bit more bulk. Mesh linings in warm-weather jackets or shorts help prevent the garment from clinging to sweaty skin by providing a breathable separation layer.
• Footwear and Accessories: Mesh fabrics are also used to line backpacks, pockets, or shoes where breathability is needed, though these are more technical uses beyond apparel.

One key advantage of mesh linings is moisture management through ventilation. Rather than absorbing sweat, mesh allows perspiration to pass through its holes so it can evaporate or reach outer layers that might wick it away. The synthetic fibers themselves (polyester, nylon) are hydrophobic and often have moisture-wicking treatments, so the mesh does not retain moisture and dries rapidly. This keeps the wearer cooler and the garment lighter during intense activity.

However, mesh linings also have some drawbacks to note. The openness can make them less opaque, so they won't hide interfacing or construction details as an opaque lining would – not an issue for most athletic gear, but a consideration for fashion garments where aesthetics matter. The texture of a coarse mesh can feel rough or scratchy against skin (imagine a wide-hole cheap gym short mesh), whereas a fine mesh or power mesh has a softer feel. Mesh can also snag on jewelry or sharp objects due to the holes. Designers mitigate this by using finer meshes for linings or ensuring the mesh is placed where it won't catch. Overall, mesh lining fabrics are best utilized when breathability, lightness, and airflow are top priorities for the garment.

Figure 1: Close-up of a polyester mesh lining fabric (black and white). The net-like structure with uniform holes provides high breathability and low weight, ideal for sportswear and swim trunk liners.

What Are Tricot Lining Fabrics (Poly Tricot)?

Tricot lining fabrics refer to linings made from tricot, a type of warp-knit fabric known for its smooth surface, slight horizontal stretch, and stability. The term “tricot” (pronounced "tree-ko") comes from the French word tricoter (to knit), and it signifies a fabric knitted on a flatbed machine using a zigzag knit pattern. Poly tricot fabric is simply tricot made from polyester yarns – a very common composition for linings in active and outerwear due to polyester’s strength and moisture resistance. Tricot can also be made from nylon or blends (often with spandex for additional stretch), but polyester tricot is widely used as a durable, affordable lining material.

In construction, tricot fabric has distinct faces: a smooth, lustrous front and a slightly textured back with fine ribs. This results from the warp knitting process, where each needle forms loops with its own yarn in parallel rows, creating interlocked zigzags. The outcome is a fabric that is soft to the touch on one side yet very run-resistant and stable on the other. Unlike a plain woven fabric, tricot knit doesn’t fray at cut edges, and it resists runs or snags more effectively than many weft knits – making it well-suited to use as a long-lasting lining. Tricot knits also typically have some give or stretch, usually with more stretch in the crosswise direction (width) and stable lengthwise. A 100% poly tricot might only have limited mechanical stretch (~10-20% elasticity crosswise), but when a small percentage of spandex (elastane) is included, it can be engineered for 2-way or 4-way stretch as needed (common in swimwear or athletic tricots). Even without spandex, the inherent knit structure means tricot linings will move a bit with the body, which is important for stretch garments – indeed, industry guidelines recommend using stretch linings like fine jersey or tricot for knit outer materials so the lining doesn’t restrict movement.

Properties and Use Cases: Tricot linings are valued for their smoothness, strength, and moderate breathability. The smooth face of tricot fabric glides well against other materials and the skin, which prevents the garment from feeling clingy or causing friction. For example, in waterproof-breathable jackets, a lightweight tricot backing is often bonded to the inner side of the membrane to provide a superior next-to-skin feel, prevent that clammy plastic sensation, and protect the membrane from abrasion and oils. Tricot’s soft touch makes it a popular choice for lining jackets, coats, and even lingerie. A tricot knit lining can instantly upgrade comfort, as it “feels soft due to the texture” and lies smoothly against the body.

Tricot linings also offer excellent durability. The warp-knit zigzag structure gives tricot fabrics a stable structure that doesn’t unravel easily and stands up to wear and tear. Many tricots are abrasion-resistant and run-resistant, meaning if they do snag, they’re less likely to develop a long run or tear. This durability is one reason tricot is used in high-stress applications like swimwear lining (where it must endure chlorine, stretching, and sand friction) and activewear. Tricot is also wrinkle-resistant – it doesn’t crease easily, maintaining a neat appearance inside a garment.

Regarding moisture management, poly tricot fabric is typically hydrophobic (polyester doesn’t absorb water into its fibers), but the knit can wick sweat through capillary action between yarns if it’s a fine knit or if a wicking finish is applied. Tricot linings in sports apparel often allow sweat to diffuse and spread, facilitating evaporation. Some technical tricots are even designed to be hydrophilic on the inner surface (to pull moisture off the skin) while still letting it pass outward – as seen in some outerwear where a tricot liner protects a membrane and aids breathability by absorbing sweat and transferring it. Generally, tricot dries quickly like other polyester fabrics. It may not ventilate as freely as an open mesh, but being thin and breathable, it still performs well in active contexts. For instance, a bonded tricot liner in a 3-layer jacket adds breathability and reduces clamminess compared to a bare membrane, without the bulk of a hanging mesh layer.

Common applications of tricot lining fabrics include:

• Sports and Activewear Linings: Many athletic shorts, yoga pants, and performance leggings are lined or faced with tricot fabrics for a smooth feel. In swimsuits, poly tricot lining (often a lightweight, nude-colored tricot) is used to line the inside of swimwear for modesty and a uniform look, preventing any see-through areas. Unlike mesh, a full tricot lining in a swimsuit gives a consistent coverage and smooth appearance inside the garment.
• Jacket and Coat Linings: Casual jackets (like windbreakers or bomber jackets) sometimes feature a tricot lining or backing. High-end technical shells use a tricot scrim as an inner layer as noted, and even some insulated jackets use tricot in pocket linings or as a soft inner face. Tricot is chosen here for its comfort and easy glide (sleeves slide on easily over other clothing) and for adding a bit of warmth or structure.
• Lingerie and Intimates: Warp-knit tricots, especially those with a bit of spandex, are common in lingerie (think of the smooth inside of a bra or the lining of stretch cups) due to their combination of softness, stretch, and strength. A fine nylon tricot, for example, might line a bra cup to both support and comfort the wearer. In shapewear, a firm tricot (or power net, a variant) might be used in panels.
• General Apparel: Anywhere a stable, slightly stretchy lining is needed (e.g., in knit dresses or skirts), tricot can be used so that the lining moves with the outer fabric. It’s often mentioned as a go-to stretch lining for knit garments.

Performance-wise, tricot offers a more uniform layer than mesh. It doesn’t have holes, so it provides complete coverage – useful for hiding construction details or interfacing, and for ensuring a uniform feel against the skin. (No one likes feeling the seam allowances or inner foam through a sparse lining; tricot prevents that by covering everything.) For example, in swimwear, while power mesh might be added in specific zones for extra support, the rest of the suit could be fully lined with lightweight tricot to keep the inside feeling uniformly smooth and to eliminate any transparency.

To summarize, tricot linings are smooth, moderately stretchy, durable knits that enhance comfort and appearance inside garments. They may trade off a bit of the extreme airflow of mesh for more coverage and a silkier touch. The pros of tricot include excellent stretch & recovery, a sleek texture, light weight, durability, quick-dry wicking behavior, and versatility. On the downside, tricot (when made of synthetic fibers) can be slightly less breathable than an entirely open mesh and can hold warmth a bit more, since it’s a continuous fabric (though it still breathes better than non-knit linings). High-quality tricots mitigate this by being thin and sometimes having moisture management finishes. Tricot can also snag or pill if abused (for instance, a rough hook-and-loop contact can fuzz it), but generally it “does not snag or run easily” compared to many fabrics.

Now that we’ve defined each type, let’s compare mesh vs. tricot lining fabrics directly across key attributes.

Mesh vs Tricot: Key Differences in Properties

Both mesh and tricot linings are popular in performance apparel, and they do share some similarities (both are often polyester knit fabrics that are lightweight and quick-drying). However, their structural differences give them distinct strengths. The table below provides a side-by-side comparison of crucial factors:

Aspect	Mesh Lining Fabrics	Tricot Lining Fabrics (Poly Tricot)
Breathability	Very high – The open hole structure allows maximum airflow. Mesh excels at ventilation, making it ideal for hot-weather and sweat-prone applications. Air passes directly through the mesh holes, so heat and moisture escape easily.	Moderate – Tricot is a tightly knit fabric (no large holes), so airflow is more restricted than mesh. It is breathable for a knit, especially when lightweight, but it can't match mesh’s ventilation. Moisture vapor can pass through, and tricot can be engineered to wick sweat, but it may feel warmer than mesh in high-sweat situations.
Weight	Ultra-lightweight – Mesh linings use less material (many open spaces), so they are very light per square yard. A coarse mesh feels almost weightless and adds minimal bulk to a garment. This is great for keeping garments light; however, note that very fine mesh with dense holes can have higher weight than extremely thin tricot.	Lightweight (varies by knit thickness) – Tricot can be made in various weights. Typical lining tricot is thin (e.g. 30–100 gsm), adding little weight. It’s slightly heavier than an equivalently open mesh because it’s a solid surface, but still considered lightweight. Designers can choose a very thin tricot for minimal weight or a mid-weight for durability.
Stretch	Variable: Basic mesh linings (100% poly/nylon) have only mechanical give and little true stretch (they might stretch a bit diagonally due to knit structure, but no elastic recovery). Some athletic meshes incorporate spandex or a special knit for 2-way stretch. Power mesh varieties are highly stretchy (often 4-way with spandex) and used when elasticity is needed for support. In summary, mesh can be either non-stretch or very stretchy depending on type; standard mesh lining in a jacket or short is usually non-stretch.	Slight to Moderate: Most poly tricot fabric used in linings has some 2-way stretch (widthwise) and good recovery, even without spandex, thanks to the knit’s zigzag pattern. It generally does not stretch much lengthwise (warp direction) unless designed to. With spandex blends, tricot can be made 4-way stretchy for high elasticity needs. Overall, tricot linings provide a gentle give that moves with the body, but standard tricot won’t stretch as much as a dedicated power mesh.
Durability	Good tear strength, but can snag – Quality mesh made from nylon or polyester has high tensile strength and can withstand regular wear without ripping. The knit structure disperses force well. However, the open holes mean edges can catch on sharp objects, potentially causing snags or tears. A large-gauge mesh is more prone to snagging (like fingers or keys can poke through). Mesh doesn’t fray (if warp-knit), but a tear could propagate along a row of holes if it occurs.	Excellent stability and snag resistance – Tricot’s warp-knit construction yields a strong, run-resistant fabric. It handles abrasion better since there are no big holes to catch or tear. Tricot won’t unravel and is less likely to develop holes; it tends to wear out gradually (through pilling or thinning) rather than sudden ripping. In high-wear areas, tricot usually outlasts mesh. One caveat: very sheer tricot can be delicate (prone to small snags or picks), but overall, tricot linings are praised for durability and long service life.
Softness & Feel	Textured to the touch – Mesh has a noticeable texture due to its netting. Finer meshes can feel soft and smooth (especially those with small holes or knitted from soft yarns), but coarse meshes may feel rough or imprint on the skin. Mesh linings tend to stand off the skin slightly (only the mesh yarns touch you in spots), which can actually reduce cling and sweatiness. Some wearers find mesh comfortable in heat, though it’s not “silky” smooth.	Smooth and gentle – Tricot is known for its smooth, sleek texture on the face side. A tricot lining feels soft against the skin, much like a lightweight jersey. It doesn’t have an open texture, so the contact is more continuous and gentle. This superior next-to-skin feel is a major advantage of tricot. It won’t leave mesh-pattern marks on the skin and tends to feel more “luxurious” inside a garment.
Moisture Management	Maximizes ventilation – Mesh does not absorb moisture (synthetic fibers are hydrophobic), but it allows sweat to evaporate quickly by exposure to air. In a mesh-lined garment, perspiration isn’t trapped; it can pass through the lining and either evaporate or be absorbed by outer layers. Polyester mesh also wicks moisture along its fibers and dries very fast. The open structure prevents the sticky feeling since there’s minimal surface to hold moisture. The trade-off is sweat can go straight through the holes (e.g., sweat might soak the outer fabric or become visible sooner). In designs like running shorts, this is acceptable for the sake of cooling.	Wicks and spreads moisture – Tricot linings can be engineered to assist in moisture management. While polyester itself won’t absorb much sweat, the knit can pull moisture through by capillarity and spread it across the fabric, where it can evaporate. Some tricot linings are treated to be more hydrophilic on the inner side, so they draw sweat off the skin (reducing clamminess) and then allow it to diffuse outward. Tricot doesn’t provide the same instant airflow as mesh, but it offers a controlled way to handle moisture – holding a thin layer of moisture that can then evaporate without feeling like a wet plastic (since tricot itself stays relatively dry to touch as it dries fast). Thus, tricot may feel drier against skin during moderate activity, whereas mesh feels drier during high airflow scenarios.
Cost	Cost-effective – Mesh lining fabrics are widely available and generally inexpensive. They often use less material (due to the holes), and common varieties (100% poly mesh) are cheap per yard, which is why they appear in many budget-friendly garments. Adding spandex or special finishes (antimicrobial, etc.) can increase cost, but basic mesh is one of the more economical lining options. Also, because mesh is light, shipping and material costs per garment are low. Overall, mesh is a budget-friendly choice for many manufacturers.	Affordable, with some variation – Poly tricot is also an economical fabric. As a synthetic knit produced in high volume, its prices are comparable to mesh. A standard polyester tricot lining might cost around the same or just slightly more than a basic mesh of equal weight. If the tricot has special properties (brushed for extra softness, or contains spandex, or is a branded high-performance type), the price can be higher. But for most tricot lining options, the cost difference versus mesh is minor. Both mesh and tricot linings are far cheaper than luxury linings like silk. Thus, cost is usually not a deciding factor between mesh vs tricot – the decision is driven by performance needs rather than raw material cost.

In summary, mesh provides superior breathability and lightness, while tricot offers a smoother feel and more uniform coverage and durability. Both are quick-drying and suitable for active applications, but they impart different performance characteristics to a garment. Knowing these differences, a designer can strategically choose one over the other (or even use them in combination) for optimal results.

Choosing Between Mesh and Tricot Linings

Selecting between a mesh lining fabric and a tricot lining comes down to the garment’s purpose, the properties needed, and the end-user’s priorities. Below are some guidelines based on garment type and functional requirements:

• High-Breathability Activewear: If you’re designing apparel for intense physical activity in warm conditions (e.g. running shorts, athletic jerseys, cycling vests), mesh lining is often the go-to because maximizing airflow is critical. Mesh linings in these garments help dump heat and sweat quickly, keeping the wearer cooler. For instance, many running shorts use a mesh brief liner specifically to allow air circulation and quick drainage of sweat. Similarly, team sport jerseys frequently use mesh (or are entirely mesh) to prevent overheating. On the other hand, if the activewear piece requires compression or uniform support (like a sports bra, compression shorts, or shapewear), you might use a power mesh panel in combination with a tricot lining: power mesh adds targeted stretch support, while tricot might line other areas for comfort. Bottom line: choose mesh when ventilation outranks all other concerns; choose tricot (or a mix) when you need a balance of support, modesty, and comfort along with breathability.
• Comfort and Next-to-Skin Feel: For garments where the lining will directly contact a large area of skin (and especially if the wearer might not have other layers underneath), tricot lining options generally provide a nicer tactile experience. Examples include casual shorts or pants where the lining might touch the legs, or jackets intended to be worn over short sleeves. A tricot-lined jacket feels smoother on your arms than a mesh-lined one, which can sometimes feel a bit scratchy. In children’s wear or sensitive-skin applications, a soft tricot is likely preferable to avoid irritation. That said, not all meshes are uncomfortable – fine micro-mesh can also feel soft – but as a rule, tricot’s silkier touch gives it an edge for next-to-skin comfort.
• Garment Type and Style Considerations: Consider the outer fabric and style. Knit outer garments (like stretch dresses or knit sportswear) often “expect” a stretch or knit lining so that the layers behave similarly. Tricot or stretch mesh are recommended here; a non-stretch woven lining would conflict with the outer knit’s flexibility. If the garment is a loose-fit woven (like a coat or skirt), breathability might be achieved through vents or fabric choice, and the lining’s job is more to provide shape and ease of dressing – in these cases, designers might use neither mesh nor tricot but rather a silky woven lining. However, for casual jackets and outdoor shells, you’ll often choose between a mesh drop-liner or a tricot backing. 2-layer waterproof jackets aimed at budget markets use hanging mesh linings to protect the membrane because it’s cheap, though it adds a bit of bulk. 3-layer premium jackets bond a tricot scrim internally for a trimmer, higher-performance solution. So for a sleeker, higher-end look and feel, tricot wins (no loose liner flapping around). For a simpler construction and cost-saving, a sewn-in mesh lining can suffice. Visually, if the inside of the garment will be seen (unlined areas or translucent shell fabric), a tricot lining provides full coverage (often in a matching or contrast color for design effect), whereas a mesh would show its net pattern. For example, a white mesh lining under a thin white shell might be noticeable as a grid, while a solid tricot would appear as an even layer.
• Moisture and Climate: Think about the climate and moisture scenario. For hot, humid conditions or intense sweating, an open mesh might keep the wearer most comfortable by preventing any moisture buildup – the sweat can evaporate straight away. But in a cooler or mixed climate, a mesh lining might feel cold or insufficient if air drafts right through; a tricot lining will provide a touch more warmth and can buffer the skin from a chill. Tricot can also temporarily hold a bit of warmth and disperse moisture, which might be beneficial in moderate activity by avoiding the feeling of sweat trickling (the tricot will catch and spread it). For swimwear, mesh is rarely used as a full lining because it can trap sand and doesn’t hide areas that might stretch thin; tricot linings are almost universal in swim garments for a consistent look and to add a layer between body and outer fabric. On the flip side, boardshorts and swim trunks often have mesh briefs, but those are for water flow and are usually a separate liner brief, not full garment lining.
• Durability and Longevity: If the product is meant for heavy-duty use or frequent washing (e.g., a work jacket, a backpack lining, etc.), and breathability can be slightly compromised, a tricot lining will likely hold up better over time without tearing. Mesh could tear if, say, a user constantly puts on the jacket catching a ring on it. If using mesh in a heavy-use garment, opt for a smaller-hole, sturdier mesh to minimize snag risk. Tricot is also better for protecting other layers – for instance, in a jacket, a tricot liner will protect a waterproof membrane from dirt and abrasion more uniformly than a mesh that leaves some spots exposed. So for technical performance gear built to last, tricot is often the choice.
• End-User Preference: Some end-users simply prefer one feel over the other. Athletes might love how airy mesh-lined gear feels, associating it with cooling and lightness. Others might dislike the feel of mesh and perceive it as cheap, preferring the more substantial feel of a tricot or jersey lining. As a designer, consider the expected customer: a hiker might appreciate a soft tricot lining in a mid-layer or shell for comfort during varied activity, whereas a marathon runner might want as little lining as possible (or one that basically disappears like mesh). For premium products, tricot can impart a higher-quality feel – as Coco Chanel noted, luxury is often in what you don’t see, and a smooth inside finish is part of that ethos. Mesh, being visibly perforated, sometimes connotes a more utilitarian or sports-specific aesthetic.
• Hybrid Approaches: It’s not always either/or. Some garments successfully use both mesh and tricot in different zones. For example, a jacket could have a mesh upper back panel lining for extra ventilation, while using tricot lining in the sleeves for easy on-off and in the front panels for wind resistance behind perforations. Layering mesh over tricot is another technique: one might back a coarse mesh with a layer of tricot to combine structure and air gap with smooth touch (though this adds weight and cost, so it’s not common unless needed for design). In swimwear design, as mentioned, targeted power mesh panels are added to a fully tricot-lined suit to get the benefits of both – uniform coverage plus extra support where needed. As an apparel developer, don’t hesitate to use mesh and tricot in complementary ways if the garment’s functionality calls for it.

Conclusion: Making an Informed Selection

Both mesh and tricot lining fabrics have important roles in modern apparel design, and neither is universally “better” – it truly depends on context. Mesh lining fabrics shine in applications where breathability, light weight, and ventilation are paramount, offering maximum airflow and quick drying. They keep athletes cool and garments lightweight, though they sacrifice a bit of coverage and can be prone to snagging. Tricot lining options, especially common poly tricot fabrics, provide a smooth, comfortable feel and sturdy performance, excelling in durability, modesty, and mild stretch for movement. They create a polished interior finish and can still handle moisture and heat reasonably well, even if not quite to the degree an open mesh can.

When choosing between mesh and tricot, designers should weigh the pros and cons in light of the garment’s purpose: consider breathability vs. coverage, stretch vs. stability, and softness vs. structure. Often, the decision comes down to what will enhance the end-user’s experience – whether it’s staying cool and dry during intense activity (mesh’s forte), or feeling comfortable and supported throughout wear (tricot’s strength). By understanding the technical differences and real-world behavior of these lining materials, apparel professionals can make informed selections that marry form and function. The result is garments that not only perform as intended – keeping the wearer comfortable, dry, and free to move – but also stand up to use and feel great from the moment one puts them on. An informed lining choice ultimately enhances garment quality, proving that what’s on the inside can be just as important as the outer fabric in achieving design excellence.